Free Seattle Public Library Classes Help Parents Make Sense of AI

If you’re confused about AI technology — or just getting started — the Seattle Public Library is offering a series of free classes at branches across the city this fall. Sessions cover how artificial intelligence works, its risks and benefits, and ways to protect yourself and your family in the rapidly changing tech landscape. One hands-on class even lets you bring your device and get help adjusting privacy and security settings.

All programs are free, and registration is not required unless noted.

• Tech 101: Data Privacy. Learn what a digital footprint is and how it is created. Bring your device and instructors will walk through settings that can help you minimize your and your family’s digital footprint.
  • Thursday, Sept. 10, from 5:30–7 p.m., Montlake Branch
• AI, Privacy and Data. An interactive workshop that focuses on the real-world risks, tradeoffs and safeguards around AI and data privacy. Participants will learn about the current state of AI, how AI uses data, and how it affects your privacy – and that of your kids. No prior knowledge about AI is necessary.
  • Thursday, Sept. 10, from 6–7:30 p.m., Greenwood Branch
  • Sunday, Sept. 20, from noon–1:30 p.m., Southwest Branch
  • Sunday, Oct. 18, from 2–3:30 p.m., Queen Anne Branch
  • Wednesday, Nov. 4, from 5:30–7 p.m., Rainier Beach Branch
• Where Is AI in 2026 and Where Is It Going? This workshop explores where AI may be in the next one to five years and what that means for your daily life. The beginner-friendly overview will include live demos that reveal breakthroughs and risks.
  • Saturday, Sept. 26, from 2–3:30 p.m., Northgate Branch
  • Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 6–7:30 p.m., Madrona/Sally Goldmark Branch
  • Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 5:30–7 p.m., Central Library, Level 4, Room 2
• Understanding AI. Learn about current AI capabilities, how to stay safe, what the future might look like and how we can have a voice in shaping it.
  • Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 4–5:30 p.m., Northeast Branch
  • Tuesday, Oct. 27, from 5:30–7 p.m., NewHolly Branch
  • Thursday, Nov. 5, from 6–7:30 p.m., Northeast Branch